Martin’s Dane good for Stew
STEWART DOWNING is backing Denmark striker Martin Braithwaite to fire Boro into the promotion frame.
The former England man and Braithwaite, who was playing just his fourth game after a summer move from Toulouse, were the key men as Garry Monk’s side twice came from behind.
But the result still means the Teessiders have now gone four Championship matches without a win.
Braithwaite smashed home an equaliser after Ashley Fletcher’s own goal had given Barnsley a third-minute lead.
The Tykes went ahead again through the impressive Cameron McGeehan before Britt Assombalonga levelled for the second time.
Downing said: “He’s a very good player. I’ve seen bits of him in training after a difficult injury which wasn’t a great start for him.
“But you can see his quality. He can see a pass, he’s a good dribbler and he’s a good lad. I’m pleased he’s back fit as we need him. He knows where the goal is and he can create too.”
There were some boos from Boro fans at half-time but a strong second-half performance left them just three points off the play-offs.
Downing added: “Even at 2-1 down I still thought we were going to win. We had a lot of possession and once Britt got the goal I thought it was only going to go one way.
“The fans were behind us and I thought we’d nick it but it wasn’t to be.”
Barnsley midfielder McGeehan, who is returning to fitness following a broken leg, scored his first goal for the club with a header from a Brad Potts cross.
He said: “It’s a good point against a team who have spent a lot of money and like to keep the ball.
“They have some big players, but it’s still disappointing not to hold onto the lead.” 98IEJC<P%%%) D@;;C<J9IFL>?%%%)